Santa Really Should Stop Pinching Little Girls

I apologize for the recent blogger silence. I will blame it on this:I got a sewing machine for my birthday!!! I am very, very excited, and I am SLOWLY learning how to sew. It is something that requires a great deal of patience. I am really looking forward to learning more and more. I have already made several Christmas presents and have four more to make. I think it is such a great hobby for being able to make dresses for Belle, stuff for around the house, and great gifts!

Speaking of Christmas... this is the first time EVER I have had almost all my Christmas shopping done this early. Except for one gift and a few stocking stuffers, I am done shopping. It is very exciting and has definitely taken a lot of the stress out. I am doing Christmas morning breakfast for my family, so getting this done lets me focus on having everything ready for cooking that morning.

We took Belle to see Santa tonight. That was an experience. We knew she wasn't going to be a happy camper due to her fear of men. We got her all dressed up and braved the hour long line. As we drew near Santa's laps we gave her some puff snacks to eat and even put a few in her hand. We thought this would at least distract her from the stranger with all the white hair... um.... see for yourself:

Just in case you needed the zoom in shot:
PRICELESS. Is it bad that Mark and I were about dying laughing at how pitiful she was? My favorite part of the night was when the lady asked which picture I wanted. I guess it was between screaming and screaming harder. Well I figure if you really want to capture the moment perfectly you should get the screaming harder. Don't worry, Belle was smiling within 2 seconds of being in our arms. I love these times. We always find a good laugh in our day.

Sorry for the rambling. We have a lot coming up between Christmas and getting ready for Belle's first birthday party. I will try to stay up-to-date as best as I can. Hope all of you are having a very enjoyable holiday season!